DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
This office action is in response to remarks filed 05/05/2026.
Claims 1-20 are pending and presented for examination. Claims 1, 9, and 17 are amended. No claims are cancelled or added.
Continued Examination Under 37 CFR 1.114
A request for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, including the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e), was filed in this application after final rejection. Since this application is eligible for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, and the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e) has been timely paid, the finality of the previous Office action has been withdrawn pursuant to 37 CFR 1.114. Applicant's submission filed on 05/05/2026 has been entered.
Information Disclosure Statement
The information disclosure statement (IDS) submitted on 04/08/2026 and 05/22/2026 are in compliance with the provisions of 37 CFR 1.97. Accordingly, the information disclosure statement is being considered by the examiner.
Double Patenting
The nonstatutory double patenting rejection is based on a judicially created doctrine grounded in public policy (a policy reflected in the statute) so as to prevent the unjustified or improper timewise extension of the “right to exclude” granted by a patent and to prevent possible harassment by multiple assignees. A nonstatutory double patenting rejection is appropriate where the conflicting claims are not identical, but at least one examined application claim is not patentably distinct from the reference claim(s) because the examined application claim is either anticipated by, or would have been obvious over, the reference claim(s). See, e.g., In re Berg, 140 F.3d 1428, 46 USPQ2d 1226 (Fed. Cir. 1998); In re Goodman, 11 F.3d 1046, 29 USPQ2d 2010 (Fed. Cir. 1993); In re Longi, 759 F.2d 887, 225 USPQ 645 (Fed. Cir. 1985); In re Van Ornum, 686 F.2d 937, 214 USPQ 761 (CCPA 1982); In re Vogel, 422 F.2d 438, 164 USPQ 619 (CCPA 1970); In re Thorington, 418 F.2d 528, 163 USPQ 644 (CCPA 1969).
A timely filed terminal disclaimer in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(c) or 1.321(d) may be used to overcome an actual or provisional rejection based on nonstatutory double patenting provided the reference application or patent either is shown to be commonly owned with the examined application, or claims an invention made as a result of activities undertaken within the scope of a joint research agreement. See MPEP § 717.02 for applications subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA as explained in MPEP § 2159. See MPEP § 2146 et seq. for applications not subject to examination under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA . A terminal disclaimer must be signed in compliance with 37 CFR 1.321(b).
The filing of a terminal disclaimer by itself is not a complete reply to a nonstatutory double patenting (NSDP) rejection. A complete reply requires that the terminal disclaimer be accompanied by a reply requesting reconsideration of the prior Office action. Even where the NSDP rejection is provisional the reply must be complete. See MPEP § 804, subsection I.B.1. For a reply to a non-final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.111(a). For a reply to final Office action, see 37 CFR 1.113(c). A request for reconsideration while not provided for in 37 CFR 1.113(c) may be filed after final for consideration. See MPEP §§ 706.07(e) and 714.13.
The USPTO Internet website contains terminal disclaimer forms which may be used. Please visit www.uspto.gov/patent/patents-forms. The actual filing date of the application in which the form is filed determines what form (e.g., PTO/SB/25, PTO/SB/26, PTO/AIA /25, or PTO/AIA /26) should be used. A web-based eTerminal Disclaimer may be filled out completely online using web-screens. An eTerminal Disclaimer that meets all requirements is auto-processed and approved immediately upon submission. For more information about eTerminal Disclaimers, refer to www.uspto.gov/patents/apply/applying-online/eterminal-disclaimer.
Claims 1-20 are provisionally rejected on the ground of nonstatutory obvious-type double patenting as being unpatentable over claims 8, 24, and 29 of copending application 17/221,631 (hereinafter ‘631) in view of Kang (US 20230132757 A1, hereinafter “Kang”).
Regarding Claim 1, although the conflicting claims are not identical, they are not patentably distinct from each because Claim 1 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 8 of the copending application by eliminating elements and their functions of the claims set forth below.
Claim 1 of instant application
Claim 8 as depending from claim 1 of App. 17/221,631 Dated 11/06/2022
Preamble: An apparatus for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE)
Preamble: Claim 1 A user equipment (UE) for wireless communication, comprising:
Limitation 1: comprising: one or more memories storing processor-executable code; and
Limitation 1: Claim 1 a memory; and
Limitation 2: one or more processors coupled with the one or more memories, at least one processor of the one or more processors configured to cause the UE to:
Limitation 2: Claim 1 one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors configured to:
Limitation 3: receive, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information, the transmission configuration information including a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals,
Limitation 3: Claim 1 receive, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information for full duplex transmissions, the transmission configuration information including a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals; and
Limitation 3 added amendment: and the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to associated with a second TCI state;
Claim 8 (depending on 4 on 1)
wherein the DCI includes a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including at least a first field associated with a first transmission configuration indictor (TCI) state that includes the first indicator of the plurality of indicators and a second field associated with a second TCI state that includes the second indicator of the plurality of indicators.
Limitation 4: communicate, with the base station, in accordance with the transmission configuration information.
Limitation 3: Claim 1 communicate, with the base station, in accordance with the transmission configuration information.
In view of the above, it is clear that the conflicting claims are not patentably distinct from each other because Claim 1 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 1 of the copending application by reciting the italicized portions of the preamble, limitations 1, and 2. In regards to limitation 1 of “one or more memories storing processor-executable code;”, it would be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of invention that a memory coupled to a processor contains the code that is executable by the processor in order to carry out the intended function(s).
Regarding Claim 2, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein the transmission configuration information is associated with a downlink channel configuration associated with the DCI.
However, Kang discloses
The apparatus, wherein the transmission configuration information is associated with a downlink channel configuration associated with the DCI (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 3, instant application discloses “The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first TCI state includes a first indicator of plurality of indicators and the second TCI state includes a second indicator of the plurality of indicators.” (See ‘631, Claim 8)
Regarding Claim 4, instant application discloses “The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least a first indicator associated with a first reference signal of the respective reference signals, and a second indicator associated with a second reference signal of the respective reference signals.” (See ‘631, Claim 4, “The UE of claim 1, wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least a first indicator associated with a first reference signal of the respective reference signals, and a second indicator associated with a second reference signal of the respective reference signals, the first reference signal being associated with an uplink, and the second reference signal being associated with a downlink.”)
Regarding Claim 5, instant application discloses “The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least one indicator associated with a pair of TCI states.” A first TCI state and a second TCI state is a pair of TCI states. (See ‘631, Claim 8, “The UE of claim 4, wherein the DCI includes a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including at least a first field associated with a first transmission configuration indictor (TCI) state that includes the first indicator of the plurality of indicators and a second field associated with a second TCI state that includes the second indicator of the plurality of indicators.” ).
Regarding Claim 6, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two transmit beams.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two transmit beams (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 7, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two receive beams.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two receive beams (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327, ¶¶0304-0306, Fig. 16).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 8, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state or uplink spatial relation information, and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors, to communicate with the base station, is configured to: transmit a message or a sequence to the base station concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the base station
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327), and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state or uplink spatial relation information (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12; Spatial parameter for relationship of CSI-RS resource or SSB and paired relationship with UL Tx beam corresponding to the DL beam. ¶0364), and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors, to communicate with the base station (Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307), is configured to: transmit a message or a sequence to the base station concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the base station (UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225; UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 9, although the conflicting claims are not identical, they are not patentably distinct from each because Claim 9 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 24 of the copending application by eliminating elements and their functions of the claims set forth below.
Claim 9 of instant application
Claim 24 as depending from claim 14 of App. 17/221,631 Dated 11/06/2022
Preamble: An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station, comprising:
Preamble: Claim 14 A base station for wireless communication, comprising:
Limitation 1: one or more memories storing processor-executable code; and
Limitation 1: Claim 14 a memory; and
Limitation 2: one or more processors coupled with the one or more memories, at least one processor of the one or more processors configured to cause the base station to:
Limitation 2: Claim 14 one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors configured to:
Limitation 3: provide transmission configuration information that includes a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals; and
Limitation 3: Claim 14 generate transmission configuration information, for full duplex transmissions, that includes a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals; and
Limitation 3 added amendment: the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to a second TCI state.
Claim 24 (depending on 20 on 14)
wherein the DCI includes a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including at least a first field associated with a first transmission configuration indictor (TCI) state that includes the first indicator of the plurality of indicators and a second field associated with a second TCI state that includes the second indicator of the plurality of indicators.
Limitation 4: transmit, to a user equipment (UE), downlink control information (DCI) associated with the transmission configuration information.
Limitation 3: Claim 14 transmit, to a user equipment (UE), downlink control information (DCI) associated with the transmission configuration information.
In view of the above, it is clear that the conflicting claims are not patentably distinct from each other because Claim 9 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 14 of the copending application by reciting the italicized portions of the preamble, limitations 1, and 2. In regards to limitation 1 of “one or more memories storing processor-executable code;”, it would be obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art at the time of invention that a memory coupled to a processor contains the code that is executable by the processor in order to carry out the intended function(s).
Regarding Claim 10, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein, to provide the transmission configuration information, at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to: provide the transmission configuration information on a downlink channel configuration.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein, to provide the transmission configuration information, at least one processor of the one or more processors (¶¶0407, 0418, Fig. 19:1911, 1912) is configured to: provide the transmission configuration information on a downlink channel configuration (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 11, instant application discloses “The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first TCI state includes a first indicator of the plurality of indicators and the second indicator of the plurality of indicators.” (See ‘631, Claim 24)
Regarding Claim 12, instant application discloses “The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least a first indicator associated with a first reference signal of the respective reference signals and a second indicator associated with a second reference signal of the respective reference signals.” (See ‘631, Claim 20)
Regarding Claim 13, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, the uplink including at least two beams for receiving data from the UE.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, the uplink including at least two beams for receiving data from the UE (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 14, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with a downlink, the downlink including at least two beams for transmitting data to the UE.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with a downlink, the downlink including at least two beams for transmitting data to the UE (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327, ¶¶0304-0306, Fig. 16).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 15, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink TCI state or uplink spatial relation information, and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to:
transmit a message or a sequence to the UE concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the UE.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327), and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink TCI state or uplink spatial relation information (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12; Spatial parameter for relationship of CSI-RS resource or SSB and paired relationship with UL Tx beam corresponding to the DL beam. ¶0364), and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to:
transmit a message or a sequence to the UE concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the UE (UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311; Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 16, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The apparatus, wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to: communicate, with the UE, in accordance with the transmission configuration information.
However, Kang discloses:
The apparatus, wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to: communicate, with the UE, in accordance with the transmission configuration information (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225’ Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 17, although the conflicting claims are not identical, they are not patentably distinct from each because Claim 17 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 29 of the copending application by eliminating elements and their functions of the claims set forth below.
Claim 17 of instant application
Claim 29 as depending on claim 27 of App. 17/221,631 Dated 11/06/2022
Preamble: A method of wireless communication performed by a user equipment (UE), comprising:
Preamble: Claim 27 A method of wireless communication performed by a user equipment (UE), comprising:
Limitation 1: receiving, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information,
Limitation 1: Claim 27 receiving, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information for full duplex transmissions,
Limitation 2: the transmission configuration information including a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals; and
Limitation 2: Claim 27 the transmission configuration information including a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals; and
Limitation 2 added amendment: and the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to associated with a second TCI state;
Claim 29 (depending on 27)
wherein the DCI includes a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including at least a first field associated with a first transmission configuration indictor (TCI) state that includes the first indicator of the plurality of indicators and a second field associated with a second TCI state that includes the second indicator of the plurality of indicators.
Limitation 3: communicating, with the base station, in accordance with the transmission configuration information.
Limitation 3: Claim 27 communicating, with the base station, in accordance with the transmission configuration information.
In view of the above, it is clear that the conflicting claims are not patentably distinct from each other because Claim 17 of the instant application merely broadens the scope of Claim 27 of the copending application, i.e. removing “for full duplex transmissions” of the copending application Claim 27 limitation 1 versus instant application claim 17 limitation 1.
Regarding Claim 18, the instant application discloses “The method of claim 17, wherein the transmission configuration information is associated with a downlink channel configuration associated with the DCI.” (See ‘631, Claim 27 Limitation 1: “receiving, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information for full duplex transmissions,
Full duplex includes a downlink channel”)
Regarding Claim 19, the instant application discloses “The method of claim 17, wherein the first TCI state includes a first plurality of the plurality of indicators and the second TCI state includes a second indicator of the plurality of indicators.” (See ‘631, Claim 29)
Regarding Claim 20 Limitation 2, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
wherein communicating with the base station includes transmitting a message or a sequence to the base station concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the base station.
However, Kang discloses:
wherein communicating with the base station includes transmitting a message or a sequence to the base station concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the base station (UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225; UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311).
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Regarding Claim 20 Limitation 1, ‘631 does not explicitly disclose:
The method, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state or uplink spatial relation information,
However, Kang discloses:
The method, wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327), and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state or uplink spatial relation information (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12; Spatial parameter for relationship of CSI-RS resource or SSB and paired relationship with UL Tx beam corresponding to the DL beam. ¶0364),
It would have been obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of
the claimed invention to combine the configuration for duplex communication disclosed in 17/221,631 with the additional configuration information for spatial division duplexing (SDD) disclosed in Kang.
adjustment in real time.
The motivation is to improve beam pair relationship management between a UE and a base station through DCI and TCI to determine reference signals for multiple beam pairs and self-interference. (17/221,631: Abstract, ¶¶0006-0008, 0087; Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0005, 0007, 0014-0015, 0211)
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
This application currently names joint inventors. In considering patentability of the claims the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the claimed invention(s) absent any evidence to the contrary. Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and effective filing dates of each claim that was not commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the later invention in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) for any potential 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) prior art against the later invention.
Claim(s) 1-20 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable by Kang (US 20230132757 A1, hereinafter “Kang”), in view of Muruganathan et al. (US 20220338221 A1, hereinafter “Muruganathan ‘221”)
RE Claim 1 and 17, Kang discloses an apparatus or method:
for wireless communication at a user equipment (UE) (¶¶0408-0411, Fig. 19:1920), comprising:
one or more memories storing processor-executable code (¶¶0408-0411, 0418, Fig. 19:1922); and
one or more processors coupled with the one or more memories (¶¶0408-0411, 0418, Fig. 19:1921), at least one processor of the one or more processors configured to cause the UE to:
receive, from a base station, downlink control information (DCI) associated with transmission configuration information (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225), the transmission configuration information including a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals (Quasi co-location indicator. Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set. ¶¶0205-0207; ‘SpatialRelationInfo’ is a parameter representing a configuration of a spatial relation between the reference RS, downlink, and the target SRS, uplink, a plurality of indicators. ¶0248. Reference signal, RS, may be SSB, CSI-RS or SRS corresponding to ‘SRS-SpatialRelationInfo’. Usage is set for each SRS resource set. UE determines a TX beam for an SRS resource to be transmitted based on SRS-SpatialRelation Info includes in the SRS-Config IE. 0249-0251); and
communicate, with the base station (Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307), in accordance with the transmission configuration information (UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225; UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311).
Kang does not explicitly disclose:
and the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to associated with a second TCI state;
However, Muruganathan ‘221 discloses:
and the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to a second TCI state (In NR Rel-15, only one TCI state can be indicated. It has been agreed that up to two TCI states can be indicated in DCI in NR Rel-16. The TCI state(s) indicates which TRP(s) the PDSCH is transmitted from. ¶0034; In a general embodiment, the UE first receives an indication of which FDM scheme is used for PDSCH scheduling. In other embodiments, the indication may be an indication via one or more DCI fields of which FDM scheme is being used. That is, semi-static indications applying to all scheduled PDSCHs associated with a PDSCH-Config are envisioned in addition to dynamic per-PDSCH indication. Alternatively, if maximum two TBs are configured, the single codeword-single RV FDM scheme may be indicated when one TB is disabled in DCI Format 1-1 and two TCI states are indicated, and the multiple codewords-multiple RVs FDM scheme may be indicated when both TBs are enabled and two TCI states are indicated. That is, the FDM scheme may be implicitly indicated based how many TBs are enabled. In this case, the RV field for the first TB may be associated with the first TCI state and RV field for the second TB may be associated with the second TCI state. [0119] Example 2: if the TCI field in DCI indicates two TCI states, then one of the fields in DCI can explicitly indicate which type of FDM scheme is being used. In one case, different codepoints in the Antenna Ports field in DCI may be used to indicate the type of FDM scheme. Example 3: A new 1-bit DCI field may be introduced to explicitly indicate the FDM scheme. ¶¶0117-0120; );
It would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to combine the teachings of Kang, UE receives DCIs with multiple TCIs indicating associated reference signals, with the teachings of Muruganathan, indication of two TCI states in a single DCI to receive PDSCH from two different beams to a UE.
The motivation in doing so would be for method for TCI state activation and codepoint to TCI state mapping of multiple TCI states in a single DCI for transmitting PDSCH over multiple beams to improve data rates and latency. (Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0005-0006, 0007-0013, 0016; Muruganathan: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0010-0013, 0034, 0107-0109, 0127-0128, 0201)
RE Claim 2 and 18, Kang discloses an apparatus or method:
wherein the transmission configuration information is associated with a downlink channel configuration associated with the DCI (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225).
RE Claim 3, 11, and 19, Kang does not explicitly disclose an apparatus or method:
wherein the first TCI state includes a first indicator of plurality of indicators and the second TCI state includes a second indicator of the plurality of indicators.
However, Muruganathan ‘221 discloses:
wherein the first TCI state includes a first indicator of plurality of indicators and the second TCI state includes a second indicator of the plurality of indicators (Each TCI state contains QCL information, i.e., one or two source DL RSs, reference signals as indicators, each source RS associated with a QCL type. ¶0033, Reference Signal, indicator, types such as DMRS. ¶¶0025-0026; In NR Rel-15, only one TCI state can be indicated. It has been agreed that up to two TCI states can be indicated in DCI in NR Rel-16. The TCI state(s) indicates which TRP(s) the PDSCH is transmitted from. ¶0034; To facilitate receiving PDSCH data from different TRPs or beams, a UE may be indicated with two TCI states, each associated with a TRP or a beam, by a single codepoint of a TCI field in a DCI. ¶0106, Fig. 10; ).
It would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to combine the teachings of Kang, UE receives DCIs with multiple TCIs indicating associated reference signals, with the teachings of Muruganathan, indication of two TCI states in a single DCI and associated reference signals of two different beams to a UE.
The motivation in doing so would be for method for TCI state activation and codepoint to TCI state mapping of multiple TCI states in a single DCI with associated reference signals for the multiple beams to enable accurate beamforming and channel estimation of each beam. (Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0005-0006, 0007-0013, 0016; Muruganathan: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0010-0013, 0034, 0107-0109, 0127-0128, 0201)
RE Claim 4 and 12, Kang discloses an apparatus:
wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least a first indicator associated with a first reference signal of the respective reference signals, and a second indicator associated with a second reference signal of the respective reference signals (Beam management procedure, BM, divided into downlink, DL, BM using CSI-RS, a first indicator. Uplink, UL, BM uses a sounding reference signal, SRS, a second indicator. ¶0138; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12.)
RE Claim 5, Kang discloses an apparatus:
wherein the plurality of indicators includes at least one indicator associated with a pair of TCI states (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12.).
RE Claim 6, Kang discloses an apparatus:
wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two transmit beams (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327).
RE Claim 7, Kang discloses an apparatus:
wherein the plurality of indicators are associated with at least two receive beams (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327, ¶¶0304-0306, Fig. 16).
RE Claim 8 and 20, Kang discloses an apparatus or method:
wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327), and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink TCI state or uplink spatial relation information (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12; Spatial parameter for relationship of CSI-RS resource or SSB and paired relationship with UL Tx beam corresponding to the DL beam. ¶0364), and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors, to communicate with the base station (Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307), is configured to:
transmit a message or a sequence to the base station concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the base station (UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225; UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311).
RE Claim 9, Kang discloses an apparatus:
An apparatus for wireless communication at a base station (¶0407, Fig. 19), comprising:
one or more memories storing processor-executable code (¶¶0407, 0418, Fig. 19:1912); and
one or more processors coupled with the one or more memories (¶¶0407, 0418, Fig. 19:1911, 1912), at least one processor of the one or more processors configured to cause the base station to:
provide transmission configuration information that includes a plurality of indicators of respective reference signals (Quasi co-location indicator. Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set. ¶¶0205-0207; ‘SpatialRelationInfo’ is a parameter representing a configuration of a spatial relation between the reference RS, downlink, and the target SRS, uplink, a plurality of indicators. ¶0248. Reference signal, RS, may be SSB, CSI-RS or SRS corresponding to ‘SRS-SpatialRelationInfo’. Usage is set for each SRS resource set. UE determines a TX beam for an SRS resource to be transmitted based on SRS-SpatialRelation Info includes in the SRS-Config IE. 0249-0251); and
transmit, to a user equipment (UE), downlink control information (DCI) associated with the transmission configuration information (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225),
Kang does not explicitly disclose:
the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to a second TCI state.
However, Muruganathan ‘221 discloses:
the DCI including a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to a second TCI state (In NR Rel-15, only one TCI state can be indicated. It has been agreed that up to two TCI states can be indicated in DCI in NR Rel-16. The TCI state(s) indicates which TRP(s) the PDSCH is transmitted from. ¶0034; In a general embodiment, the UE first receives an indication of which FDM scheme is used for PDSCH scheduling. In other embodiments, the indication may be an indication via one or more DCI fields of which FDM scheme is being used. That is, semi-static indications applying to all scheduled PDSCHs associated with a PDSCH-Config are envisioned in addition to dynamic per-PDSCH indication. Alternatively, if maximum two TBs are configured, the single codeword-single RV FDM scheme may be indicated when one TB is disabled in DCI Format 1-1 and two TCI states are indicated, and the multiple codewords-multiple RVs FDM scheme may be indicated when both TBs are enabled and two TCI states are indicated. That is, the FDM scheme may be implicitly indicated based how many TBs are enabled. In this case, the RV field for the first TB may be associated with the first TCI state and RV field for the second TB may be associated with the second TCI state. [0119] Example 2: if the TCI field in DCI indicates two TCI states, then one of the fields in DCI can explicitly indicate which type of FDM scheme is being used. In one case, different codepoints in the Antenna Ports field in DCI may be used to indicate the type of FDM scheme. Example 3: A new 1-bit DCI field may be introduced to explicitly indicate the FDM scheme. ¶¶0117-0120;).
It would have been obvious to one having ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to combine the teachings of Kang, UE receives DCIs with multiple TCIs indicating associated reference signals, with the teachings of Muruganathan, indication of two TCI states in a single DCI to receive PDSCH from two different beams to a UE.
The motivation in doing so would be for method for TCI state activation and codepoint to TCI state mapping of multiple TCI states in a single DCI for transmitting PDSCH over multiple beams to improve data rates and latency. (Kang: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0005-0006, 0007-0013, 0016; Muruganathan: Abstract, ¶¶0002, 0010-0013, 0034, 0107-0109, 0127-0128, 0201)
RE Claim 10, Kang discloses an apparatus
The apparatus, wherein, to provide the transmission configuration information, at least one processor of the one or more processors (¶¶0407, 0418, Fig. 19:1911, 1912) is configured to:
provide the transmission configuration information on a downlink channel configuration (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225).
RE Claim 13, Kang discloses an apparatus
wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink, the uplink including at least two beams for receiving data from the UE (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327).
RE Claim 14, Kang discloses an apparatus
wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with a downlink, the downlink including at least two beams for transmitting data to the UE (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327, ¶¶0304-0306, Fig. 16).
RE Claim 15, Kang discloses an apparatus
wherein at least one indicator of the plurality of indicators is associated with an uplink (UE transmits a transmission signal, e.g. SRS reference signal indicator, to one or each of a plurality of Tx beams paired with a specific Rx beam reported as the UE capability. ¶0327), and the transmission configuration information is indicated using an uplink TCI state or uplink spatial relation information (Each TCI state may be set to one reference signal, RS, set, a plurality. ¶¶0205-0207; Tx-Rx beam pair for spatial division duplexing. ¶0303, Fig. 16; DL BM may include DL reference signals, RSs, e.g. CSI-RS or SS Block. ¶0142; UL BM with UE configured for one or more SRS resource sets. ¶0233, Fig. 12; Spatial parameter for relationship of CSI-RS resource or SSB and paired relationship with UL Tx beam corresponding to the DL beam. ¶0364), and wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to:
transmit a message or a sequence to the UE concurrent with receiving a message or a sequence from the UE (UE reports combination information of Tx beam(s) and RX beam(s) in which spatial division duplexing is enabled. The reference signal, RS, transmitted by the UE may be an UL RS. ¶¶0309-0311; Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307).
RE Claim 16, Kang discloses an apparatus
wherein at least one processor of the one or more processors is configured to:
communicate, with the UE, in accordance with the transmission configuration information (UE receives list of a number of TCI states. ¶0205; TCI state ID indicated through DCI. ¶0211; UE configured with a number of TCI state configurations per PDCCH having DCI intended for corresponding UE. ¶0215; UE receives activation command to map TCI states to a codepoint of the DCI field ‘Transmission Configuration Indication’. ¶0225’ Simultaneous performing DL/UL beam managed based on spatial division duplexing, SDD, technology. ¶¶0301-0302; Base station transmission/reception point, TRP, for transmitting DL signal and receiving UL signal from UE. ¶0307).
Response to Arguments
Applicant’s argument regarding “Improper Rejection” and the combining of cited portions of US 20230338221 A1, Muruganathan et al., and US 202300835 A1, Muruganathan et al. in rejection of a limitation of claims 1, 9, and 17 are accepted. Examiner thanks the applicant for bringing attention to this matter. Examiner has corrected the error by removing the US 202400835 A1 reference citations in this office action.
Applicant's argument filed 05/05/2026 have been fully considered but they are not persuasive.
Applicant argues that neither 20230338221 A1, Muruganathan et al., or US 202300835 A1, Muruganathan et al., submits that “MURUGANATHAN '221 fails to disclose or suggest that the DCI includes "a plurality of fields, the plurality of fields including a first field comprising a first codepoint or a first identifier corresponding to a first transmission configuration indicator (TCI) state and a second field comprising a second codepoint or a second identifier corresponding to a second TCI state," as recited in amended claim 1.” per paragraph [0034].
Examiner respectfully disagrees. Muruganathan ‘221 discloses the amended subject matter. In NR Rel-15, only one TCI state can be indicated. It has been agreed that up to two TCI states can be indicated in DCI in NR Rel-16. The TCI state(s) indicates which TRP(s) the PDSCH is transmitted from. ¶0034; In a general embodiment, the UE first receives an indication of which FDM scheme is used for PDSCH scheduling. In other embodiments, the indication may be an indication via one or more DCI fields of which FDM scheme is being used. That is, semi-static indications applying to all scheduled PDSCHs associated with a PDSCH-Config are envisioned in addition to dynamic per-PDSCH indication. Alternatively, if maximum two TBs are configured, the single codeword-single RV FDM scheme may be indicated when one TB is disabled in DCI Format 1-1 and two TCI states are indicated, and the multiple codewords-multiple RVs FDM scheme may be indicated when both TBs are enabled and two TCI states are indicated. That is, the FDM scheme may be implicitly indicated based how many TBs are enabled. In this case, the RV field for the first TB may be associated with the first TCI state and RV field for the second TB may be associated with the second TCI state. [0119] Example 2: if the TCI field in DCI indicates two TCI states, then one of the fields in DCI can explicitly indicate which type of FDM scheme is being used. In one case, different codepoints in the Antenna Ports field in DCI may be used to indicate the type of FDM scheme. Example 3: A new 1-bit DCI field may be introduced to explicitly indicate the FDM scheme. ¶¶0117-0120;
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant’s disclosure.
US 20230300835 A1 Muruganathan et al.
“SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TCI STATE ACTIVATION AND CODEPOINT TO TCI STATE MAPPING”
Systems and methods for TCI state activation and codepoint to TCI state mapping are provided. A method performed by a wireless device for activating TCI states includes one or more of: being configured to monitor a plurality of DCI formats with the TCI field for PDSCH reception; receiving a single MAC CE to activate TCI states and map activated TCI states to the TCI field codepoints of the DCI formats; and receiving separate MAC CEs to activate TCI states and map activated TCI states to the TCI field codepoints of each of the plurality of DCI formats. As such, TCI states for downlink scheduling can be more flexibly chosen for each DCI format by using separate MAC CEs. Additionally, default TCI state definitions might be provided when state activation and state to TCI field codepoint mapping to multiple DCI formats are provided by either a single or different MAC CEs.
US 20220225359 A1 Kim et al.
“METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING AND RECEIVING PHASE TRACKING REFERENCE SIGNAL IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS THEREFOR”
Disclosed are a method for transmitting and receiving a phase tracking reference signal (PTRS) in a wireless communication system, and an apparatus therefor. Particularly, a method for receiving a phase tracking reference signal (PTRS) by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system may include the steps of: receiving PTRS configuration information, wherein the PTRS configuration information includes information on a frequency density of a PTRS; receiving downlink control information (DCI), wherein a plurality of TCI states are indicated on the basis of the DCI; and receiving the PTRS, wherein on the basis that resources in a frequency domain associated with each TCI state of the plurality of TCI states do not overlap with each other, the frequency density of the PTRS is determined by the number of resource blocks associated with each TCI state.
US 20230114662 A1 Matsumura et al.
“UPDATING ACTIVE TCI STATE FOR SINGLE-PDCCH BASED MULTI-TRP PDSCH OR MULTI-PDCCH BASED MULTI-TRP PDSCH”
Systems and methods are disclosed herein for updating an active Transmission Configuration Indication (TCI) state for single- or multi-Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) based multi-Transmission/Reception Point (TRP) Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH) transmissions. In one embodiment, a method performed by a wireless communication device comprises receiving a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) comprising information that activates one or more TCI states for a particular serving cell and/or bandwidth part (BWP) of the wireless communication device that is configured for multi-PDCCH based multi-PDSCH transmission and maps at most one of the activated TCI states to each codepoint for a Downlink Control information (DCI) TCI field. The method further comprises receiving a PDCCH comprising a DCI in which the DCI TCI is set to a particular codepoint and determining the activated TCI state used for a PDSCH scheduled by the DCI based on the information comprised in the DCI.
Any inquiry concerning this communication or earlier communications from the examiner should be directed to PAUL A. LANGER whose telephone number is (703)756-1780. The examiner can normally be reached Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Eastern.
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If attempts to reach the examiner by telephone are unsuccessful, the examiner’s supervisor, Nishant B. Divecha can be reached at 1 (571) 270-3125. The fax phone number for the organization where this application or proceeding is assigned is 571-273-8300.
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/PAUL A. LANGER/Examiner, Art Unit 2419
/Nishant Divecha/Supervisory Patent Examiner, Art Unit 2419
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